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The independence of the legal profession faces a serious threat due to attempts by the Bar Association of the Kingdom of Cambodia to limit the freedom of Cambodian lawyers to work for non-government organizations (NGOs). At stake is the future of legal aid services in the country, and whether NGOs are free to employ lawyers to represent Cambodia's poorest and most vulnerable citizens in court cases.

Over past months, the Bar Association ("the Bar") has taken a position that lawyers cannot work as employees of an NGO unless that NGO has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Bar.

The Bar's assertions have no basis in Cambodia law, which does not require any such MOUs.